Women Power: New WI launches

By Ken Bennett

A new branch of the Woman’s Institute has been launched in Saddleworth aimed at encouraging friendship and support for members.

And Jessica Moreland, the first president of the fledging Dovestone WI, is spearheading  a publicity drive to promote the new group with a distinctive new logo.

She says: “Dovestone WI is as open and as welcoming as our namesake. The logo underpins our identity.

“And regardless of your address, situation, circumstance, job or age, this is a place of solidarity, support and sisterhood. It’s the core ethos of what the Women’s Institute was built on over a century ago.”

She stressed: “Our aim is to encourage friendship and mutual support, while engaging in our many social, educational and charitable activities.

“It’s an opportunity to listen to guest speakers, meet other like-minded women, perhaps make new friends or just sit, have a drink and take it all in!”

Dovestone WI inaugural meeting is on Wednesday, April 17  at the Royal George,  Greenfield, at 8pm in the Wimberry Suite, and every third Wednesday thereafter.

And in a direct message to members Jessica added: “We  have a really stimulating list of speakers right up until Christmas. The meetings offer a perfect opportunity to rendezvous early with your friends for pre-meeting drinks or something to eat. If  you’re coming on your own, there’ll always be someone for you to keep company.

“Feel free to come along as a guest to see what we’re all about, and if you like what you see, just join! Look forward to seeing you there.”

For more information on Dovestone WI call Jessica Moreland: 07985 938868. Or check their Facebook page.

Meantime, The Original Saddleworth WI, who have appointed a new committee, are promising an exciting programme of speakers.

They have set up headquarters at The White  Hart, Lydgate, with meetings the first Wednesday of every month at 7.00pm for 7.30pm.

Meetings:

Wednesday,  April 3:  Guest speaker Sara Rowbotham,  Councillor and Deputy Leader of Rochdale Council the “Whistle Blower” of the Child Sex Scandal in Rochdale.

Wednesday, May 1, Guest speaker, Suzanne Thorpe,  owner of The Frostery, Uppermill  a specialist cake maker  with appearances on “Extreme Cake Makers” on Channel 4.

Sunday,  14th July 14:  2pm, afternoon tea with speaker  Edwina Currie. This function is slightly different from the normal meeting and will be held on a Sunday afternoon at The White Hart. Tickets are now available.

Any ladies are welcome to attend a “taster” meeting without obligation to join. Of why not bring a friend and see what the revitalised Saddleworth WI has to offer?

For further information and regular updates visit: www.saddleworthwi.com

Author: Jude Gidney - Editor

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